The 2025 NBA draft lottery took a dramatic turn Monday night, setting the stage for major shifts across the league. Duke forward Cooper Flagg—widely considered one of the most accomplished freshmen in college basketball history—is expected to go No. 1 overall. Surprisingly, that pick now belongs to the Dallas Mavericks, who had just a 1.8% chance of landing it. According to ESPN Research, this marks the biggest jump in lottery history. The San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers moved up to No. 2 and No. 3, respectively.
With Flagg likely headed to Dallas, the Mavericks could pair him with Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis—whom they controversially acquired by trading Luka Dončić before the deadline. Flagg not only strengthens their current title push but could also become the new face of the franchise. Meanwhile, San Antonio enters the offseason as a wildcard contender, holding the second pick and a wealth of young talent.
On the morning of the lottery, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Giannis Antetokounmpo is now open to exploring his options beyond Milwaukee—a first in his career. While he hasn’t made a final decision, the Bucks are expected to meet with his representatives this offseason to discuss next steps.
With the lottery results finalized, trade talks involving Antetokounmpo could now intensify. The Spurs, now holding the No. 2 pick, may be in a strong position to make a play for him if Milwaukee opts to move on. This follows a tough end to the Bucks’ season, which included Damian Lillard’s Achilles injury in their first-round playoff loss and looming free agency decisions for several key players. Milwaukee also doesn’t control its own first-round pick again until 2031, diminishing their incentive to pursue a full rebuild.
Several teams are positioned to make a compelling trade offer for Giannis. The Spurs could package the No. 2 pick, Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle, and other assets like Devin Vassell and future first-rounders. San Antonio reportedly plans to build a playoff-caliber roster around Victor Wembanyama next season.
The Houston Rockets are also in the mix, armed with young prospects and future picks—including unprotected 2027 selections from Phoenix. According to The Athletic, the Rockets view Giannis as their most attractive trade target, ahead of even Kevin Durant. While Amen Thompson is reportedly off-limits, Houston could offer Alperen Şengün, Jabari Smith Jr., and other talented young players plus picks.
The Pelicans saw their lottery odds fall, ending up with the No. 7 pick instead of a top-four selection. This weakens their ability to package an offer for Antetokounmpo, though they still hold Milwaukee’s 2026 and 2027 first-round picks. Meanwhile, the Thunder—still alive in the playoffs—missed out on a valuable pick from the 76ers, but remain a potential Giannis contender thanks to their deep asset pool.
Even though Giannis is over 30, he remains one of the league’s elite players, coming off a third consecutive season averaging at least 30 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists. If the Bucks choose to trade him, they’re likely to receive a historic return. With two years left on his deal and a consistent MVP-caliber resume, Antetokounmpo could become the centerpiece of one of the most significant trades in NBA history. If the Spurs are willing to include the pick that would likely land Flagg’s counterpart, Ace Bailey or D.J. Wagner, they could emerge as the top destination for the Greek Freak.
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